Friends can be like family, and in some cases are family. We’re there for them when they’re going through a tough time and vice versa. But one of the hardest parts of being a good mate is calling them out when they’re using coercive control and knowing how to do that can be difficult.
Have you ever seen a mate treat their partner in a controlling or manipulative way that just doesn’t sit right with you? They may be showing signs that they are using coercive control — a type of family and domestic violence that can happen to anyone. It is a pattern of abusive behaviours used to make someone feel afraid and take away their freedom and independence. These actions can be subtle, manipulative, individually targeted and tailored to the victim-survivor.
Coercive control can be hard to spot when you’re on the outside looking in. Sometimes there are no signs at all that this type of abuse is happening. However, there are some signs you can look out for, which could indicate that a person is experiencing family and domestic violence: You can see some examples of what coercive control can look like over here Being open with your mates is a huge strength.
If you are concerned about your mate, starting a conversation with them is an important way to help, especially if you’re worried about how someone is treating their partner or family. Here are five points to help you start the conversation with someone if you’re worried they’re using coercive control or other forms of.